Routing protocols allow routers to exchange information and dynamically calculate the optimal data pathways between any two points on a network. Interior routing protocols operate within an autonomous system, while exterior protocols route between autonomous systems. Common interior protocols include RIP, OSPF, IGRP, and EIGRP, while exterior protocols include EGP and BGP. Routing metrics like hop count, bandwidth, load, and reliability help routers determine the best routes. Dynamic routing enables automatic path selection and updating in response to topology changes. [/SUMMARY]